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Definitions

in the limelight

ADJECTIVE
renowned
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acclaimed distinguished eminent esteemed famed great illustrious notable noted outstanding prominent well-known
WEAK
big-name celebrated celebrious extolled high-profile lauded monster name of note praised redoubted signal splashy star superstar
Antonyms
STRONGEST
common inconspicuous infamous inferior insignificant ordinary poor unimportant unknown unnoticeable unremarkable
WEAK
anonymous obscure
ADJECTIVE
well-known
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acclaimed eminent illustrious important infamous known leading notable noted notorious outstanding popular prominent recognized renowned reputable
WEAK
VIP WK big big-name big-shot celeb celebrated common conspicuous in the public eye large name public somebody splashy star superstar widely known
Antonyms
STRONGEST
inconspicuous inferior insignificant obscure ordinary unimportant unknown unnoticeable unremarkable
WEAK
unfamiliar

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The war has put all things energy, including coal, natural gas, and oil, in the limelight.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

“My God, the Nazis knew how to put themselves in the limelight and present themselves,” said Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music in 2007.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

Perhaps it's time for viruses to take their turn in the limelight.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2025

The 33-year-old will be disappearing for good when his City contract expires in the summer, but here he was able to enjoy another deserved moment in the limelight - his penultimate game at the Etihad.

From BBC • May 2, 2025

I could have told you this at the height of his reputation, just as I could have predicted his downfall after a few short years in the limelight.

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.